Everfall is set within a pristine 20,000-square-foot property in one of Coral Gables’ oldest and most storied neighborhoods. Here, mature canopy trees, towering palms, and historic architecture define a sense of place often referred to as the “real Miami.” While the residence showcases exquisitely modernized architecture and unobstructed views of Biscayne Bay, the pre-existing garden fell short of its potential. Our design challenge is twofold: to reimagine vehicular and pedestrian circulation in harmony with the site’s topography, and to create a garden that respects and reinforces the character of its historic setting. Circulation was addressed first. The driveway was redesigned to ease steep slopes and form a welcoming motor court that blends hardscape and planting. Pedestrian access was reoriented to highlight the east–west axis, and the former unsightly pedestrian ramp was replaced with platform steps, expansive landings, and lush planting; establishing a tranquil and clearly defined entry sequence. The planting design emphasizes native species along the perimeter and public right-of-way, aligning with the evolving character of surrounding gardens. Within the property, sculptural specimen trees, epiphytes, and lithophytes evoke the feeling of a long-established landscape. A palette of Mediterranean textures and cliff-dwelling Date Palm species were integrated as elegant accents. Color plays a vital role in the sensory experience, introduced through climbing vines and profusely flowering shrubs and groundcovers in shades of pink, purple, and white. Above all, the garden is designed as a reflection of our clients—their personalities, passions, and way of life. It is a living extension of their home, offering beauty, comfort, and an immersive connection to the natural world. We are honored to shape the vision for the Everfall. This landscape is essential to the experience of the property, and our design seeks to honor its rich context, architectural sophistication, and breathtaking views of the Miami skyline. Scale 0.47 ACRES Scope HARDSCAPE + PLANTING DESIGN Year 2025 Photography Studio PYG Architecture Renovation Bravo Architecture Interior Design Miriam Moore Design Studio Landscape Architecture LandFluent General Contractor Artisan Custom Homes of South Florida Landscape Contractor Signature Trees & Palms Lighting Design / Contractor PCL Lighting

A Seattle couple needed to take advantage of our amazing summer weather and asked for a way to watch movies outside. We were up to the challenge, designing a custom concrete bench that by day serves as built-in seating and transforms at night into a perfect spot to catch a flick on the fly! Other touches include modern planting and steel planters to match the contemporary feel of the home. Photos by Miranda Estes Photography

Master Bathroom Remodeling in Ambler, PA – A Complete Transformation by BMR Belmax Remodeling At BMR Belmax Remodeling, we specialize in creating beautiful, functional, and luxurious bathroom spaces tailored to our clients’ needs. One of our most recent projects involved a master bathroom remodeling in Ambler, PA, where we completely reimagined the layout to maximize space, improve functionality, and enhance aesthetics. The result was a modern, spacious, and inviting master bathroom that perfectly suited the homeowner’s vision. The Challenge: An Outdated and Divided Bathroom The original master bathroom in Ambler, PA was divided into two separate rooms. One area housed a vanity and closet, while the other contained the shower and toilet. While functional, this layout felt cramped, disjointed, and inefficient. The homeowners wanted to merge these two spaces into a single, cohesive master bathroom that felt larger, more open, and more luxurious. They envisioned a modern walk-in shower, enhanced storage, better lighting, and high-end finishes, all while improving the flow and accessibility of the space. Our team at BMR Belmax Remodeling worked closely with them to develop a design that addressed their needs and transformed their bathroom into a modern retreat. The Transformation: A Unified & Modern Master Bathroom Our approach to this bathroom renovation in Ambler, PA focused on space optimization, luxury finishes, and functionality. We combined the two separate rooms into one expansive master bathroom, making the space feel more open and elegant. 1. Layout Reconfiguration & Wall Removal We removed the dividing wall between the shower and vanity area to open up the space and create a more seamless layout. A new wall was built to expand the shower area, allowing for a larger and more comfortable walk-in shower. The closet and vanity space were integrated into the main bathroom layout, eliminating the need for a separate entryway and making the space more efficient and accessible. 2. Walk-In Shower with Premium Features A stunning walk-in shower with sleek glass doors was installed to give the bathroom a modern and luxurious look. We used large-format tiles on the shower walls and flooring, creating a cohesive, stylish, and low-maintenance surface. A built-in recessed niche with a custom tile shelf was added for practical storage while maintaining a clean and sophisticated design. 3. Vanity & Storage Enhancements The old vanity was replaced with a sleek, modern vanity that provided ample storage and counter space. We incorporated custom-built shelves on the left side of the vanity, offering additional storage without cluttering the design. A lighted mirror was installed above the vanity, combining style and practicality while enhancing the overall lighting in the space. 4. Elegant Fixtures & Finishes To add a touch of luxury, we installed gold-finished fixtures, including the showerhead, faucets, and cabinet handles, giving the bathroom a high-end, elegant feel. A modern one-piece toilet was installed to complement the clean and minimalist design. The bathroom’s neutral color palette and textured finishes created a calm and inviting atmosphere. 5. Enhanced Ventilation & Lighting A new exhaust fan was installed to improve air circulation and moisture control, ensuring a comfortable and mold-free environment. Additional task lighting and ambient lighting were carefully placed to make the bathroom bright, warm, and inviting. The Result: A Stunning, Spacious, and Functional Master Bathroom The completed master bathroom remodeling in Ambler, PA is now a spacious, modern retreat that perfectly blends style and functionality. By unifying the previously divided rooms, we created a flowing and open space that feels larger and more inviting. The walk-in shower, gold fixtures, and custom vanity elevate the aesthetics, while the recessed niche, built-in shelves, and enhanced lighting provide practicality and comfort. The homeowner was thrilled with the transformation, noting how much brighter, more functional, and elegant the space now feels. They particularly loved how the layout reconfiguration made the space more open and efficient, as well as the luxurious finishes that added a high-end touch.

When the Owners approached Goggans Architecture about renovation of a 90’s era oceanfront house, it was clear there would be a lot more to the renovation than mere updates and remedying deferred maintenance. One of the most significant issues was how to integrate an outdoor pool given the pool had to be within the building envelope, and the house was already abutting the setback on its ocean side. A second significant challenge was how to provide a roof top deck over a pitched roof house with an attic, that was functional and attractive. Finally, creating better access from the parking area to the kitchen was a priority. Goggans Architecture addressed the placement of a pool by creating a walled courtyard at the front, or landward side, of the house. The pool was placed on one side of the entry walkway, while its composition was balanced by a parterre garden on the other side of the walkway. The roof top deck was resolved by adding a new staircase and passageway through former attic space. By using a motorized roof hatch, the Owners could ascend to the roof deck which perched just below the roof ridge, hidden from view from the street. Relocating an underneath stair from one side of the house to a point that was closer to the kitchen resolved the access issue. These strategic moves created other opportunities, such as expansion of the master bathroom to a portion of the front porch, while allowing an exterior stair from the bath directly to the pool. Other enhancements included placement of a large folding door in the Great room, renovation and expansion of the kitchen and exterior decks, reorganization, and replacement of the fenestration, updating all baths and interior and exterior finishes. The extensive renovation reflects the holistic approach of Goggans Architecture, marrying landscape architecture, architecture, and interiors.

Vivid Interiors It all began with an aqua Terrazo tile as the inspiration for -our client's master bathroom transformation. A master suite built for an Edmonds Queen, with walk-in closet, master bathroom, and 2 vanity areas were included. The project also included updates to her powder room and laundry room- which was relocated to the lower level. This allowed us to reframe her master suite area and create a larger, more dramatic, and very functional master bath. Angled walls made space-planning and reframing a challenging puzzle to solve and we not only had to measure the interior, but the exterior angles as well since we were removing walls. Luckily, the large “wet room” concept met the client’s needs and overcame this obstacle. The new space features a stand-alone tub open showering area, as well as sink vanity, and seated makeup area. Additionally, storage needs were addressed with a wall of cabinetry installed adjacent to the new walk-in closet. A serene color palette and a variety of textures gives this bathroom a spa-like vibe and the aqua highlights repeated in glass accent tiles. Our client enjoys her choice of a walk-in shower or soaking tub with bubbles in the modernized space. Storage was desperately needed, as you can see from the before photos, so the en-suite closet was designed in a linear wall configuration. The original Terrazo tile was used as the vertical accent in the corner of the shower and on the top of the rounded shower bench. Our client held onto her inspiration tile for years while she saved to create a budget worthy of this project and its amenities. Budget is always a consideration, and here our client chose to spoil herself. Some unique design features include: • The angled end of the makeup vanity with shelves for toiletries within easy reach of the tub and hidden view. • The makeup vanity side lighting, seated counter and a convenient laundry chute • The free-standing tub is perfectly positioned to create a direct sight-line through the master bedroom to the Puget Sound views beyond. • Wall-mount waterfall filler and controls at the tub eliminate a bulky floor mount faucet. • An angled countertop and glass shelving add interest between the sink vanity and closet cabinetry. • The toilet is tucked out of sight just past the first tall cabinet. • A glass partition blocks overspray from the shower. She now enjoys a spa like retreat every day!

You are walking quietly through the tall grass next to a wide river, brown and fast moving from fresh floods. The hot sun setting slowly overhead. Just as the sun begins to touch the horizon, the whole sky is brushed in a rich orange hue. You emerge from the grass to be greeted by your first sight of African lions in their natural habitat and a Serengeti sunset that will stay with you for the rest of your life. This was the moment that began this project, inspiring the client to recreate that moment for their sport hunting trophy room in their home. The goal was to be able to recreate that experience as closely as possible, while also ensuring that every mount in the collection had the ideal amount and type of light directed at it. Nature exhibits an infinite amount of unique color and light environments. From rich color in every hue and temperature, to light of all different intensities and quality. In order to deliver the client’s expectations, we needed a solution that can reflect the diverse lighting environments the client was looking to recreate. Using a Ketra lighting system, controlled through a Lutron HomeWorks QS system, tied in seamlessly to an existing Lutron HomeWorks Illumination system, we were able to meet all of these challenges. Tying into the existing system meant that we could achieve these results in the space that the client was focused on without having to replace the whole system. In that focused space, creating dynamic lighting environments was central to several elements of the design, and Ketra’s color temperature settings enabled us to be extremely flexible while still providing high quality light in all circumstances. Using a large track system consisting of 30 S30 lamps, each individually addressed, we were able to create the ideal lighting settings for each mount. Additionally, we designed the system so that it can be set to match the unique warm standard Edison-style bulbs in the main chandelier, it can be set to a “Natural” mode that replicates the outdoor conditions throughout the day, or it can simulate the exact color temperature progression of that unforgettable Serengeti sunset. Control of the lighting environment and a smooth transition to the lighting systems in the rest of the home was also a priority. As a result, we installed 3 Lutron motorized shades in the space to account for ambient light, and 6 A20 lamps in an adjacent bar area to create a natural transition to the rest of the lighting system. This ensures that all of the lighting transitions, whether from the rest of the home to the trophy room or the trophy room to the outside, are continuous and smooth. The end result is an impressive and flexible display space with an added “wow factor” that is out of this hemisphere!

Inspired by noted American architect Norman Jaffe, the strikingly contemporary Sagaponack Residence on Long Island is highlighted by distinctively unique angles both inside and out. Jaffe was widely recognized for his contemporary residential style and use of natural materials and passive solar forms of design for his many South Long Island beach houses. The 2,700 sq. ft. private residence is located one-half mile from the Atlantic coast and sited in an area that was originally characterized by long vistas over farm fields to the ocean beyond. Now, the area is thickly built up with weekend homes. The project was meant to address this change by creating a place that focuses on the immediate landscape and provides a garden environment for the owner. A collaborative arrangement between two architectural firms brought the project to life. Andrew Reyniak, principal at ARAPC, New York, was architect of record; Mark Anthony C. Verzosa, principal at +macv, Sag Harbor, NY, was design consultant and general contractor. “We knew we wanted to use zinc from the beginning,” Verzosa said. “We wanted a material that had a life.” Approximately 5,500 sq. ft. of prePATINA blue-grey RHEINZINK was specified to provide the life and the look that the design team sought. RHEINZINK Vertical Angled Standing Seam Panels and Flat Lock Tiles clad the exterior along with rough-sawn, locally-sourced white cedar. RHEINZINK Double Lock Standing Seam Panels were used on the roof. “The RHEINZINK is obviously a very versatile material,” according to Verzosa. “The color blends very well into the environment and the sky in particular. And we like the way it patinas and self-heals.” The unique design of the house incorporates unusual angles on both the exterior and interior. “There’s not a lot of 90 degree or horizontal plumb walls,” Verzosa said. “The dramatic geometry of the building created complicated detailing on the project.” Fabrication and installation of the RHEINZINK panels was done by Metropan Systems, Inc., Bayside, NY. The company specializes in zinc façade and roofing projects, according to John Gushue, president. “We’ve done more than 60 zinc projects since 2001 and the majority have been RHEINZINK,” Gushue said. “If I could do zinc every day, I would.” The unusual geometry of the Sagaponack Residence made for a challenging installation. “There was nothing cookie cutter about this job,” according to Gushue. “We began meeting with the architect about a year before actually starting the work in order to incorporate the very best detailing. Every fastener is hidden and there’s no caulk on the façade. Many of the RHEINZINK panels were fabricated on-site in order to bend around corners. And the flashing details had to be meticulous.” The design of the project presents a modern, artistic look in every aspect. “Of all the zinc projects we’ve done, this is my favorite,” Gushue said. “It was a great job to be on. And properly maintained, it could last for 150 years.”

Everfall is set within a pristine 20,000-square-foot property in one of Coral Gables’ oldest and most storied neighborhoods. Here, mature canopy trees, towering palms, and historic architecture define a sense of place often referred to as the “real Miami.” While the residence showcases exquisitely modernized architecture and unobstructed views of Biscayne Bay, the pre-existing garden fell short of its potential. Our design challenge is twofold: to reimagine vehicular and pedestrian circulation in harmony with the site’s topography, and to create a garden that respects and reinforces the character of its historic setting. Circulation was addressed first. The driveway was redesigned to ease steep slopes and form a welcoming motor court that blends hardscape and planting. Pedestrian access was reoriented to highlight the east–west axis, and the former unsightly pedestrian ramp was replaced with platform steps, expansive landings, and lush planting; establishing a tranquil and clearly defined entry sequence. The planting design emphasizes native species along the perimeter and public right-of-way, aligning with the evolving character of surrounding gardens. Within the property, sculptural specimen trees, epiphytes, and lithophytes evoke the feeling of a long-established landscape. A palette of Mediterranean textures and cliff-dwelling Date Palm species were integrated as elegant accents. Color plays a vital role in the sensory experience, introduced through climbing vines and profusely flowering shrubs and groundcovers in shades of pink, purple, and white. Above all, the garden is designed as a reflection of our clients—their personalities, passions, and way of life. It is a living extension of their home, offering beauty, comfort, and an immersive connection to the natural world. We are honored to shape the vision for the Everfall. This landscape is essential to the experience of the property, and our design seeks to honor its rich context, architectural sophistication, and breathtaking views of the Miami skyline. Scale 0.47 ACRES Scope HARDSCAPE + PLANTING DESIGN Year 2025 Photography Studio PYG Architecture Renovation Bravo Architecture Interior Design Miriam Moore Design Studio Landscape Architecture LandFluent General Contractor Artisan Custom Homes of South Florida Landscape Contractor Signature Trees & Palms Lighting Design / Contractor PCL Lighting

The owners of this very small home have no back yard and wanted to pack a lot of features into the sunny front yard. Designing small gardens can actually be challenging as using the space has to be ultra-efficient. Design goals included an area to grow vegetables, space to sit in the sun and privacy from the busy street. Gently curving Arizona flagstone pathways connect all of the garden features which include two large redwood raised vegetable beds. These special beds have seating walls on all four sides for enjoying your glass of wine and maximizing the space. We installed new redwood fences, pergolas and gates to provide a sense of enclosure from the street. Mounding, drought-tolerant Mediterranean plants create year-round color and invite insect activity. Hidden beneath the surface is a series of drains to address slope and runoff issues in the rainy season. You don't need a lot of space to enjoy the beautiful Santa Cruz outdoors!

Transformed Urban Oasis: Premium Artificial Turf Installation" Set in the heart of Palm Beach Gardens this backyard underwent a comprehensive transformation, turning a previously underutilized space into a lush, evergreen oasis. The aim was clear: to craft an outdoor environment that requires minimal maintenance, provides aesthetic pleasure, and offers functional space for various activities. Initially, the backyard presented challenges including uneven ground, patchy grass areas, and poor soil conditions. Our team addressed these issues with precision grading and soil stabilization techniques, preparing a perfect base for the upcoming transformation. We opted for a premium artificial turf, chosen for its realistic texture, durability, and environmental resilience. Spread across [specific square footage/size of the area], the turf exudes a natural charm that rivals the best of lawns. With its soft pile height and UV resistance, it promises year-round greenery without the hassle of watering, mowing, or fertilizing. Details, such as the seamless integration of the turf with existing patios or garden beds, highlight our team's meticulous attention to detail and commitment to excellence. The results are evident — a green sanctuary ready for sunbathing, children's play, or simply lounging. Homeowners have praised the transformation, noting the newfound usability of their outdoor space, the reduction in water bills, and the numerous compliments they receive from visitors. This project isn't just about installing artificial turf; it's about reimagining urban backyards, bringing nature closer to home, and offering sustainable and beautiful solutions for modern living.

This remodel addressed issues including peeling vinyl flooring, outdated fixtures, and safety hazards due to deferred maintenance. Challenges included: sourcing budget-sensitive materials with a high-end feel; slip-resistant hexagon floor tiles; a new pedestal sink; a water-saving toilet; and a larger medicine cabinet, while correcting code violations. Universal Design created an open floor plan, low-maintenance finishes, zero-threshold entries into the bathroom and shower, in addition to highly-contrasting materials, grab bars with blocking, accessible towel bars for user convenience, and dimmable lighting with anti-glare trim. We combined modern materials for a noir style and universal functionality for our aging-in-place clients and their forever home.

Building a Dream Backyard When this homeowner started the design process of a new backyard, Braen Supply was immediately there to supply all the stone materials. The home was part of a new development, so the challenge was to make the home stand out while still addressing specific areas of the existing backyard, such as the steep grade. Working With the Experts Taking the steep grade into consideration, moss rock boulders were selected to create stairs down to the lower area of the backyard where the fire pit sits. The grade of the backyard also allowed for the infinity pool, full color bluestone pattern was selected as the veneer for the back wall of the infinity pool. Braen Supply chose Tennessee gray and bluestone to create a seamless transition from the front of the house to the back of the house. Although they are two different stones, they work nicely together to complete the overall design and tone of the home. It all came together and made the perfect backyard. Materials Used: Belgium Blocks Full Color Bluestone Pattern Bluestone Caps Tennessee Gray Irregular Moss Rock Boulders Full Color Bluestone Irregular Kearney Stone Steps Granite Mosaic Veneer Completed Areas: Front Walkway & Porch Driveway Edging Backyard Walkways Pool Patio & Coping Pool Water Features Fireplace Hearth & Mantal Wading Pool Raised Hot Tub

Home Remodeling Project Overview This extensive home remodeling project transformed a dated and inefficient layout into a functional, open, and aesthetically cohesive living space. The original layout had several challenges: • A kitchen with limited storage, no cabinets on the window side, a sink facing the wall, and a range crammed into the corner. The pantry closet was too deep and impractical. • A living room that couldn’t accommodate furniture without interfering with traffic flow. • A front foyer with wasted space. • A claustrophobic hallway toilet room without a sink, located near the laundry room. The Remodeling Concept The scope of this project extended well beyond the kitchen. We proposed several layout options to address issues in all adjacent spaces, ultimately implementing a plan that: • Removed two walls and moved doorways. • Replaced the kitchen window. • Converted the hallway toilet room into a storage space. • Installed pocket doors to separate the laundry hallway from the living room. Kitchen Transformation • Open Concept: By removing the wall between the kitchen and dining room, the two spaces became a seamless open area. • New Layout: Cabinets were relocated to the window side for more storage and natural light. A central island with storage and seating was added, and a coffee bar was installed in the dining room. • Updated Pantry: The deep pantry closet was converted into a pullout pantry with a cabinet front for better accessibility. • Design Details: Off-white kitchen cabinets pair beautifully with a light green island. Warm white quartz counters and an artisan tile backsplash complete the look. Dining Room • Expanded Space: Most of the wall separating the dining room and foyer was removed, creating a more spacious area while still accommodating all furniture thanks to careful measurements. Living Room Improvements • Optimized Layout: Moving doorways and installing pocket doors allowed for better furniture placement, including a sofa that doesn’t interfere with traffic flow. • Fireplace Upgrade: The brick fireplace was updated with a three-dimensional staggered stone veneer in a color matching the kitchen cabinets, creating a cohesive look. A TV was installed above the fireplace at a comfortable viewing angle. Additional Updates • New Flooring: All remodeled rooms now feature updated flooring. • Ceilings: Popcorn ceilings were replaced with smooth, flat finishes, complemented by recessed lighting. • Walls: Fresh paint throughout the space, with an accent wall in the living room matching the light green of the kitchen island. • Lighting: Stylish sconces were added for a touch of elegance. The Result The homeowners are thrilled with the transformation, marveling at how their once cramped and inefficient home now feels spacious, functional, and beautifully cohesive. They can’t believe their house could ever look like this!

Building a Dream Backyard When this homeowner started the design process of a new backyard, Braen Supply was immediately there to supply all the stone materials. The home was part of a new development, so the challenge was to make the home stand out while still addressing specific areas of the existing backyard, such as the steep grade. Working With the Experts Taking the steep grade into consideration, moss rock boulders were selected to create stairs down to the lower area of the backyard where the fire pit sits. The grade of the backyard also allowed for the infinity pool, full color bluestone pattern was selected as the veneer for the back wall of the infinity pool. Braen Supply chose Tennessee gray and bluestone to create a seamless transition from the front of the house to the back of the house. Although they are two different stones, they work nicely together to complete the overall design and tone of the home. It all came together and made the perfect backyard. Materials Used: Belgium Blocks Full Color Bluestone Pattern Bluestone Caps Tennessee Gray Irregular Moss Rock Boulders Full Color Bluestone Irregular Kearney Stone Steps Granite Mosaic Veneer Completed Areas: Front Walkway & Porch Driveway Edging Backyard Walkways Pool Patio & Coping Pool Water Features Fireplace Hearth & Mantal Wading Pool Raised Hot Tub

When the Owners approached Goggans Architecture about renovation of a 90’s era oceanfront house, it was clear there would be a lot more to the renovation than mere updates and remedying deferred maintenance. One of the most significant issues was how to integrate an outdoor pool given the pool had to be within the building envelope, and the house was already abutting the setback on its ocean side. A second significant challenge was how to provide a roof top deck over a pitched roof house with an attic, that was functional and attractive. Finally, creating better access from the parking area to the kitchen was a priority. Goggans Architecture addressed the placement of a pool by creating a walled courtyard at the front, or landward side, of the house. The pool was placed on one side of the entry walkway, while its composition was balanced by a parterre garden on the other side of the walkway. The roof top deck was resolved by adding a new staircase and passageway through former attic space. By using a motorized roof hatch, the Owners could ascend to the roof deck which perched just below the roof ridge, hidden from view from the street. Relocating an underneath stair from one side of the house to a point that was closer to the kitchen resolved the access issue. These strategic moves created other opportunities, such as expansion of the master bathroom to a portion of the front porch, while allowing an exterior stair from the bath directly to the pool. Other enhancements included placement of a large folding door in the Great room, renovation and expansion of the kitchen and exterior decks, reorganization, and replacement of the fenestration, updating all baths and interior and exterior finishes. The extensive renovation reflects the holistic approach of Goggans Architecture, marrying landscape architecture, architecture, and interiors.

Construction: Kingdom Builders It's all about you! Your dreams, your site, your budget…. that's our inspiration! It is all about creating a home that is a true reflection of you and your unique lifestyle. Every project has it's challenges, but underneath the real-life concerns of budget and bylaws lie opportunities to delight. At Kallweit Graham Architecture, it is these opportunities that we seek to discover for each and every project. The key to good design is not an unlimited budget, nor following trends. Rather, it takes the limitations of a project and, through thoughtful design, brings out its uniqueness, and enhances the property and it's value. Building new or renovating an existing home is exciting! We also understand that it can be an emotional undertaking and sometimes overwhelming. For over two decades we have helped hundreds of clients "find their way" through the building maze. We are careful listeners, helping people to identify and prioritize their needs. If you have questions like what is possible? what will it look like? and how much will it cost? our trademarked RenoReport can help… see our website for details www.kga.ca. We welcome your enquiries, which can be addressed to Karen or Ross Karen@kga.ca ext:4 Ross@kga.ca ext: 2 604.921.8044

The Setup: After purchasing this home, the homeowners faced a unique opportunity to reimagine their kitchen and nearby spaces. Water damage from a burst pipe had left much of the home’s interior in need of repair, and while the existing kitchen was functional and in relatively good shape, it didn’t align with the family’s vision for their new home. The layout included a peninsula that wasn’t ideal, and there were some druthers with the nearby pantry. Since the space needed to be rebuilt anyway, the homeowners saw this as a chance to create a kitchen that was both highly functional for their four young children and timeless in its design. The project also included a refresh of the adjacent message center and dining room — spaces that play key roles in the family’s daily life. The goal was to create a cohesive flow between these areas, balancing modern functionality with the craftsman-inspired character of the rest of the home. Design Objectives: - Replace the outdated peninsula with a large island to maximize counter space and create new seating options. - Open up the space visually by removing soffits and rethinking the cabinetry layout. Incorporate concealed refrigeration and freezer units to provide significant storage for the family while maintaining a streamlined aesthetic. - Integrate black cabinetry into the design without making the space feel harsh or heavy. - Ensure the lighting plan balances functional task lighting with ambient accent lighting. - Avoid visual clutter in the cabinetry design while still giving a nod to the craftsman aesthetic. - Incorporate a slab backsplash as a key design feature. Design Challenges: - The outdated peninsula left dead space in the kitchen and lacked sufficient seating for the family. - The cooktop wall was cramped, with small cabinets flanking the hood, limited storage, and soffits that made the space feel closed-in. - The family needed significant refrigeration space (two refrigerators and a freezer) but wanted to avoid a cluttered look with visible stainless steel appliances. - Adding black cabinetry risked making the space feel too dark or heavy. - The original lighting plan was insufficient, particularly over the dining table where a decorative fixture proved too dim. - The family wanted shaker-style drawer fronts to match the home’s arts-and-crafts design but worried that too much shaker cabinetry might look overly busy. - Prioritizing a slab backsplash in the wish list priority planning. The Renewed Space Design Solutions: - A functional island: The peninsula was replaced with a large island that provides continuous countertop space for prepping and serving. The island also features seating for four people, creating a central hub for informal meals and activities. - Streamlined cooktop wall: The soffits were removed, and the upper cabinets on the cooktop wall were eliminated to create a more open, streamlined design. A custom oversized hood became the focal point of the wall, with the blower unit offset inside it to align with the cooktop while maintaining exterior visual symmetry. - Concealed refrigeration: Two column refrigerators and one freezer were integrated into the cabinetry, concealing them behind wood paneling that blends seamlessly with the overall design. - Warm black cabinetry: The black cabinetry was crafted from hickory with a visible grain, softening its appearance and adding warmth. The grain detail gives the cabinetry a rich, textured look that avoids feeling stark or overpowering. - Additional lighting: In the dining area, recessed can lights were added during an additional installation phase to supplement the gorgeous decorative fixture’s dim output. The new lighting plan creates a layered effect, combining functional task lighting with softer ambient lighting. - Simplified cabinetry details: Slab drawer fronts were used on the upper drawers, while five-piece shaker fronts (with slightly less prominent rail and stile pieces) were reserved for the middle and lower drawers. This approach simplified the overall look while maintaining the craftsman-inspired aesthetic. - Slab backsplash priority: The slab backsplash was prioritized by making thoughtful adjustments elsewhere, like opting not to extend cabinetry to the ceiling, which also helped visually prioritize the gorgeous slab backsplash. This decision also enhanced the kitchen’s furniture-like feel, aligning with the home’s craftsman character. - This kitchen perfectly balances practicality with timeless style. By addressing the family’s functional needs — ample seating, smart storage, and effective lighting — while incorporating thoughtful design elements like warm black cabinetry and a striking slab backsplash, Alicia created a space that works beautifully for a busy household. The result is a cohesive, inviting kitchen that honors the home’s craftsman roots and will serve the family well for years to come.

On top of many other considerations, sound was a significant factor – in more ways than one – when it came time for prentiss+balance+wickline ARCHITECTS to design Seattle’s “Ballard Cut” house. In fact, it was particularly relevant to the home’s fenestration. Situated on a patch of ground that offered gorgeous views of Puget Sound on one side but a railroad cutback on the other, Ballard Cut presented a unique challenge. To address this conundrum, the designers at prentiss+balance+wickline wanted windows with optimal sightlines to augment the inlet-side views and proper sound absorption to negate the roar of the trains. After considering many options, prentiss+balance+wickline ultimately found what they were seeking in Milgard Windows & Doors’ aluminum windows. Read full story: https://www.milgard.com/blog/aluminum-windows-milgard-ensure-fabulous-views-seattle

This was the another opportunity to work with one of our favorite clients on one of her projects. This time she wanted to completely revamp a recently purchased make-shift revenue property and convert it to a legal three-suiter maximizing rental income in a prime rental area close to NAIT. The mid-fifties semi-bungalow was in quite poor condition, so it was a challenging opportunity to address the various structural deficiencies while keeping the project at a reasonable budget. We gutted and opened up all three floors, removed a poorly constructed rear addition, and created three comfortable suites on the three separate floors. Compare the before and after pictures - a complete transformation!